East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce recently held a "Starry, Starry Nights in the East" gala at the Northshore Harbor Center near Slidell. The evening was star-studded, as Chamber members, board representatives and community activities were recognized for service to the organization and Slidell.

John Smith accepts a special award recognizing him for his service as chairman of the East St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Smith was serving his second term as chairman of the board, and was doing so during the Chamber's noted 50th anniversary.Carol Wolfram, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune

Dawn Sharpe-Brackett, chief executive officer, thanked all members for their support of a stellar year during which more than 260 events were hosted and 1,050 investors were recruited into the Chamber family.

She gave special thanks to the 2012 Board of Directors, noting that they are a "diverse group of business leaders responsible for setting policy, annual goals, providing committee leadership, and ensuring adequate funding for the Chamber."

John Smith, chairman of the board for the second time, received special recognition for his service to the Chamber during its 50th anniversary year. He was named Director of the Year.

Earning special recognition among the Advisory Board members was Rene Arcemont, with eSYNCS, who was named Advisory Board Member of the Year.

Retiring board members applauded were Bill Newton, also a past chief executive officer of the Chamber; and Robyn Kline.

Other top honors of the evening went to:

Ambassador of the Year: Yolanda Paz, of the St. Tammany Parish Tourist Commission.

Member of the Year: Silver Slipper Casino.

New Business of the Year: NOLA Southern Grill.

Small Business of the Year: eSYNCS, founded and owned by Drew Franzo.

Large Business of the Year: STARC.

Community Involvement Business of the Year: Slidell Memorial Hospital, Large Business honoree; and Vicky Magas Insurance, Small Business honoree.

Community Spirit: Ron Davis and Linda Larkin.

Emerging Young Professionals Board Member of the Year: Linda Larkin.

Emerging Young Professionals Member of the Year: Mike Scardino of Silver Slipper Casino.

Emerging Young Professionals Business of the Year: Tojo's Lawn Care, Tony Walley.

Economic Development Pioneer Award: This award, which recognizes community leaders who have inspired and promoted economic development and growth in the region, was earned by David Kaufmann Sr. and K.B. Kaufmann & Co. Inc.

Athena Award: Tara Ingram Hunter.

Athena Young Leader Award: Dionne Graham.

Prior to the evening of celebration, members of the East St. Tammany Chamber Board of Directors were installed by the Honorable 22nd Judicial District Court Judge and past Chamber Chairman of the Board Rick Swartz.